Triplet Father
The primary role Keith plays in this world is as father to his triplets: Amelia, Jefferson, and Whitman. As a single father of three, Keith takes his role as a parent seriously and has formulated a philosophy which shapes his actions: to set a positive example for his children to follow, to provide his children with the opportunities they need to grow, and to ensure there is no question in his children’s minds that they are loved unconditionally.
Combat Veteran
Part of Keith’s core identity is as a veteran that deployed 3 times to Afghanistan with the United States Army. The three compounding combat tours resulted in Keith being diagnosed with severe PTSD, which he has received continuous treatment for through the William C. Talent VA Outpatient Clinic in Knox County’s 4th District since 2012. As a veteran Keith is acutely aware of the stresses placed on pubic servants and their families and understands Knox County’s mental health crisis from the inside-out. He has been able to successfully manage his PTSD symptoms through in-person therapy, physical exercise, nutrition, and mindfulness techniques.
Jeffersonian Christian
Keith is a Christian that follows The Life and Morals of Jesus of Nazareth (a.k.a., The Jefferson Bible) created by Thomas Jefferson. In essence that means Keith views Jesus Christ as the model for how we should all strive to live, but with the humility to realize that none of us will ever reach that perfection so we must accept that we are flawed and show others the grace and forgiveness that Jesus taught to us.
As a U.S. Army soldier, part of Keith’s job was to be aware and competent of a wide range of cultures and societies. Thus, Keith has studied and been immersed in Muslim, Buddhist, and Jewish groups and has found that, aside from extremists that seek power and wealth, all cultures and religions are compatible to live as neighbors, friends, and family.
Community Advocate
Keith moved to the 4th District of Knox County in 2015 and became active as a community advocate shortly thereafter, speaking at the Knox County School Board, Knoxville City Council, and Knox County Commission. In 2020, Keith accepted a job at the University of Tennessee Medical Center and was quickly thrust in to a leadership role helping guide the community through the COVID-19 pandemic. Keith has also participated on several city, county, and state political campaigns and his most frequent financial contributions and volunteer hours are dedicated to our local National Public Radio station, WUOT.